Summary
Understanding Ransomware Attacks
Highlights
Defining Ransomware
Ransomware is a malicious software designed to hold private data hostage, often through encryption or exfiltration with threats of public release. Payments are typically demanded in cryptocurrency or stored-value cards to avoid detection. In some cases, data may be recovered without payment due to developer errors or ineffective encryption implementation.
Attack Vectors and Delivery
Attacks are usually executed via Trojans disguised as legitimate files, often delivered through deceptive email attachments. While user interaction is typically required, some high-profile threats like the WannaCry worm are capable of spreading automatically across computer networks without human assistance.
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Original text
Ransomware is a type of malware that takes the private data of a victim hostage until a ransom is paid. This can involve encryption of the data, and/or exfiltration with the threat of publicly releasing the data.[1][2][3][4][5] Ransom is typically requested to be paid via cryptocurrency or stored-value cards since these are harder to trace; making the crime more difficult to prosecute. Sometimes the original files can be retrieved without paying the ransom due to implementation mistakes, leaked cryptographic keys or a complete lack of encryption in the ransomware.
Ransomware attacks are typically carried out using a Trojan disguised as a legitimate file that the user is tricked into downloading or opening when it arrives as an email attachment. However, one high-profile example, the WannaCry worm, traveled automatically between computers without user interaction.[6]